Tanzanite is a rare and fascinating gemstone, known for its deep blue-purple colour and relatively recent history. Discovered in the 1960s, this gem quickly caught the attention of jewellers and collectors worldwide.

Features

  • Colour: Tanzanite is famous for its unique colour, which varies from sapphire blue to deep purple, depending on the angle and illumination. This phenomenon, known as pleochroism, is one of the gem's distinctive features.
  • Rarity: Tanzanite is found exclusively in a small area of Tanzania, near Mount Kilimanjaro. This rarity makes it one of the most precious gems in the world.
  • History: Tanzanite was only discovered in 1967, making it one of the youngest gems. Its discovery is shrouded in mystery and legend, with tales of Maasai shepherds allegedly finding the first gems after a fire.

Uses

Tanzanite is highly valued in jewellery, where it is used to create rings, earrings, necklaces and other jewellery. Due to its beauty and rarity, tanzanite is also a highly sought-after collector's item.

Curiosities

The name ‘tanzanite’ was given by Tiffany & Co., which introduced the gemstone to the international market. Tanzanite is considered a good luck stone for those born in the month of December.

In summary, tanzanite is an extraordinary gemstone that combines beauty, rarity and a fascinating history.